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Baked Caramelized Salmon

Featured in Ocean fresh catch of the day.

This dish brings out the best in salmon with a perfectly balanced honey and lime sauce. Oven baking makes the fish tender and juicy.

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alicia in the kitchen
Updated on Wed, 19 Mar 2025 15:23:51 GMT
Grilled salmon fillets topped with coriander and served with lime wedges. Pin it
Grilled salmon fillets topped with coriander and served with lime wedges. | tasteofsavor.com

My lime garlic honey butter salmon has become the star of my family dinners. The soft fish flesh soaks up the sweet honey and tangy lime flavors, always making an impression. It's what I cook when I want something fancy without spending forever in the kitchen.

A delightful harmony of tastes

I love how this dish blends sweet and tangy elements. The honey gets slightly caramelized while cooking as the garlic adds its comforting aromatic touch. This is my go-to when I come home late since it's quick to make but still super tasty.

Shopping list

  • Salmon fillets: 4 nice pieces of 180g, very fresh
  • Unsalted butter: 4 spoons melted for glazing
  • Garlic: 4 cloves freshly minced
  • Honey: 2 spoons of my favorite acacia honey
  • Lime: Juice and zest from one fragrant fruit
  • Fresh parsley: A good bunch from the garden
  • Lime wedges: For serving
  • Salt and pepper: To taste

My step-by-step approach

Getting ready
I heat my oven to 190°C and line my tray with baking paper. Makes cleanup so much easier.
Seasoning the fish
I pat my salmon pieces dry with paper towels and season them well on both sides.
Making the magic sauce
In my small bowl I mix my melted butter garlic honey lime juice and zest until everything's smoothly combined.
Coating the fish
I pour my sauce over the fillets making sure they're completely covered so all flavors sink in.
Baking time
Into the oven for 15-18 minutes. I finish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to get a nice golden glaze.
Serving up
I sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lime wedges.

My twist options

For those who like a kick I sometimes add chili flakes. When I don't have fresh lime I'll use bottled juice but it's really not the same. I often make extra sauce for my grilled veggies. Leftovers make awesome salads the next day. And my personal touch is always a nice sprig of fresh parsley for looks.

Cooked salmon fillets topped with cilantro, lime and golden sauce. Pin it
Cooked salmon fillets topped with cilantro, lime and golden sauce. | tasteofsavor.com

Side dish ideas

I pair my salmon with aromatic rice roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. The sauce works really well with creamy mashed potatoes or grilled asparagus.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I tell if salmon is done?

Salmon is ready when it flakes easily with a fork and looks opaque. Don't overcook it—it stays juicy that way.

→ Can I prepare the sauce earlier?

Yes, the sauce lasts a week in the fridge. Warm it gently before using so the butter melts back into it.

→ How do I keep salmon from drying out?

Stick to the suggested cooking time and keep foil on during baking. The sauce keeps it moist too.

→ Is frozen salmon okay?

Sure, just thaw it fully in the fridge first. Pat it dry with paper towels before cooking for the best texture.

→ What sides go well with this?

Pair it with rice, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad. The sauce works wonders on the sides too.

Honey Lime Salmon

Tender salmon fillets coated in a honey-lime and garlic glaze. A classy, flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
By: Alicia

Category: Seafood

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Blended

Yield: 4 Servings (4 fillets)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 4 salmon fillets, about 170 g each.
02 4 tablespoons unsalted butter.
03 4 minced garlic cloves.
04 1 tablespoon lime juice.
05 Zest from 1 lime.
06 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley.
07 Salt, as needed.
08 Black pepper, to taste.
09 2 tablespoons honey.
10 Lime wedges for serving.

Instructions

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

Step 02

Pat the salmon fillets dry using paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 03

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, honey, lime juice, and lime zest. Stir until combined.

Step 04

Pour the honey-lime sauce over the fillets, making sure to coat them all evenly.

Step 05

Bake the salmon for 15-18 minutes, until it’s cooked through. For a golden top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 06

Sprinkle with the fresh parsley and immediately serve alongside lime wedges.

Notes

  1. You can make the sauce ahead—it keeps in the fridge for up to a week.
  2. Leftover salmon is great flaked onto salad or mixed into pasta.
  3. Want extra heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes or sriracha!

Tools You'll Need

  • Oven.
  • Baking sheet.
  • Foil or parchment paper.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Fish.
  • Dairy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 380
  • Total Fat: 22 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 12 g
  • Protein: 35 g